Rapid technological change demands adaptable leaders capable of integrating advanced capabilities into the fight. In support of the Chief of Naval Operations’ Navigation Plan (NAVPLAN) and the “Get Real, Get Better” (GRGB) initiative, the Squad with Autonomous Teammates – Challenge (SWAT-C) leverages a proven developmental model to strengthen officer accession pipelines for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. Originating as an academic research program at the U.S. Naval Academy and U.S. Military Academy, SWAT-C examines the application of emerging technologies at the infantry squad level. Core areas include Human-Machine Teaming (HUM-T), Cognitive Electronic Warfare (CEW), Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven decision support, and advanced training systems. Evolving beyond the classroom, SWAT-C delivers operationally relevant, experiential learning that prepares warfighters to adapt to evolving threats in contested environments. By bridging academic research and operational readiness, SWAT-C ensures the next generation of leaders can innovate, integrate, and excel in the modern battlespace.